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MAAA Scholar Seizes Film Opportunity Abroad

MAAA Scholar Seizes Film Opportunity Abroad

For years, Jeremiah Flores admired the brightly colored posters of exotic lands in the Study Abroad Office, but he was not sure he was ready to spend an entire semester abroad. Costs were a big concern for him and his family.

“Filmmaking as an art is very expensive one,” said the senior film production major. Nonetheless, one of the lessons that Flores has learned at Loyola Marymount University is not to let a good opportunity go by.

Last semester, guided by instinct and curiosity, Flores challenged himself to be a part of the filmmaking study abroad program in Dusseldorf, Germany. The experience led the budding producer on a powerful journey of self-discovery.

“I’m very interested in graffiti art as a form of expression and knew going into the program that that was what I wanted to make my documentary about,” said Flores.

During the program, Flores traveled to other parts of Europe including Spain, where he connected with Horna, a graffiti artist who inspired more than Flores’ documentary.

“My perspectives as an artist and as an individual were reshaped dramatically. What Horna reminded me was that as artists we must always fight to make our voices heard, because if just one person is influenced by our work, then it is worth it.”

Flores said that the trip gave him the determination and confidence to remain true to his creative freedom. A scholarship from the Mexican American Alumni Association was one of the main reasons he was able to go on the trip.

“With scholarship money going toward textbooks and fees, the extra money that I earn can go toward my goals,” said Flores, who is already planning his next work. He will be the first in his immediate family to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Flores will be among the 70 scholars honored at the 27th Annual MAAA Scholarship Awards Dinner on Thursday, Nov. 20. To learn more about making contributions that help LMU students seize new opportunities, please visit www.lmu.edu/maaa or call Margie Benito at 310.338.7529.